Inauguration Day

This morning, for the final time of the 82nd session, House and Senate convened. The Presiding Officers of each chamber special ordered bills on second reading and the Representatives and Senators debates ranged from proposed guardrails on AI usage to changing state minimum wage.

"This program has continued to shaped strong female leaders for our state, and now you are all a part of that."

Mayor Gina Ortiz-Jones, a former Girls State citizen, joined us to deliver an inspiring address. "This program has shaped strong female leaders and now you are all a part of that." Shortly after, the House and Senate came together for a special joint session of the Bluebonnet Girls State Legislature to inaugurate their newly-elected state officials. The Honorable Stephanie Bascon, Judge - 466th Judicial District Court, joined us to administer the oaths of office to swear in our 2026 Texas Bluebonnet Girls State elected officials. She spoke on the importance of women in government and patriotism. Claire Noel, Speaker of the House, and Taylor Wright, President of the Senate, adjourned the joint legislative session, closing out House and Senate one last time. Our newly elected Governor of Girls State shared with us that "Girls State has given me the opportunity to impact the people around me. I started the week just wanting to have fun but when I got into it, I realized what I was fighting for and who I was fighting for: all of you!"

After the inauguration, County and State-wide Functioning, the citizens had several afternoon events to choose from, including a college & career fair, a digital literacy workshop, and a Juneteenth history walk.

The day closed with the entire 51st state gathered in Jackson for the talent show. After the talent show, Citizens returned to their cities for a final celebration with their counselors (and surprise cake!).